While my mono's are in for a refresh I was given a Hafler 500 "loaner" Auditioning shows good depth in the soundstage but a complete collapse of the SDA effect I became accustomed to with the B&K's. Bass is greatly diminished. Mids and highs are good almost too crisp to the point of fatiguing but I need to listen some more. I REALLY need to find me a good pre but things are kinda tight right now.
Cambridge Audio 851N Streamer/DAC
Belles 21A Pre modded with Mundorf Supreme caps
B&K M200 Sonata monoblocks refreshed and upgraded
Polk SDA 1C's modded
Wireworld Silver Eclipse IC's and speaker cables
Threw in an old Carver 900 Receiver between my CA 851N and the loaner Hafler 500 I'm forced to use while my monos are getting a tuneup. I hate to say it but I actually like this WAY better than using the pre in the 851. The Hafler has so little bass compared to what I'm used to that I added the receiver just so I can use the loudness button feature. It also helped knock down some of the harshness that was killing me with the 500/851N combo. Bonus is the SDA effect is working again.
Cambridge Audio 851N Streamer/DAC
Belles 21A Pre modded with Mundorf Supreme caps
B&K M200 Sonata monoblocks refreshed and upgraded
Polk SDA 1C's modded
Wireworld Silver Eclipse IC's and speaker cables
I've been having trouble with my newly acquired SDA SRS3.2TLs in that there were very few songs that gave me the SDA Effect. Some suggested it was that my Pioneer 100wt receiver didn't have enough current to drive them. Well, I bought myself an early XMAS/Hanukkah present... Amazon had a Monolith USB DAC on sale for $52. WOW! The imaging and overall sound have improved dramatically. Like removing a veil. Very happy... Just wish i did it years ago. Listening to flac rips of some regular cds, MFSL cds, and some 96/24 downloads. Just amazing! Anyone else have similar results with a DAC? Was looking at the dragonfly when I saw this on sale... even cheaper now on Amazon. ELP, Joe Satriani, Jeff Beck, SRV, Eagles, Steely Dan just sound amazing. Like a whole new system!
I swapped out the 5ar4 rectifier tube to a 5U4GB,and a OD3 regulator to a OC3,in my Aric Audio Unlimited pre amp on the recommendation of an agon poster,and Aric. If you have one of these pre's,I highly recommended this swap. Pure magic.
First Watt,Monarchy Audio,Aric Audio,Prometheus Audio,April Music,Bluesound,Pro-Ject,Onkyo,Graham Chartwell,Nola,Hornshoppe,HSU Research.
So, a 5U4 will have a slightly higher peak inverse voltage rating, but a higher voltage drop, and lower capacity to deliver power (i.e., lower plate current rating) compared to a 5AR4 -- I take it that the Aric Audio Unlimited (whatever that is) doesn't need the extra performance capabilities of a 5AR4? ...'cause if it does, it might not be very happy with a 5U4 in there(?)
@scottfox Absolutely! The quality of DAC makes a huge difference and I'm assuming you went from the computer's soundcard's DAC to an external USB one, which is the biggest jump you will observe. Believe it or not, higher end external USB DAC's will result in further improvements in noise reduction, jitter reduction, musicality of presentation, etc.. I have a modest DAC compared to most people here (gotta start somewhere) with an iFi nano idsd DAC. I got a huge improvement by adding an iPurifier3 and, to a lesser extent, an iDefender with a low noise external iPower power supply. The iPurifier3 does what some much higher quality DAC's and higher end regenerators do in that it regenerates and reclocks the USB signal resulting in a much cleaner, smoother, and musical sound.
George / NJ
Polk 7B main speakers, most mods comp. (1979, orig owner)
Martin Logan Dynamo sub w/6ft 14awg Power Cord
Crown D150 amp
Logitech Squeezebox Touch Streamer w/EDO applet
iFi nano iDSD DAC
iPurifier3
iDefender w/ iPower PS
Custom Steve Wilson 1m UPOCC Interconnect
iFi Mercury 0.5m OFHC continuous cast copper USB cable
Custom Ribbon Speaker Cables, 5ft long, 4N Copper, 14awg, ultra low inductance
Custom Vibration Isolation Speaker Stands and Sub Platform
So, a 5U4 will have a slightly higher peak inverse voltage rating, but a higher voltage drop, and lower capacity to deliver power (i.e., lower plate current rating) compared to a 5AR4 -- I take it that the Aric Audio Unlimited (whatever that is) doesn't need the extra performance capabilities of a 5AR4? ...'cause if it does, it might not be very happy with a 5U4 in there(?)
That's why Aric had me replace the OD3,with an OC3,due to the voltage dip. Aric Audio is a small shop in MA. Reasonable price,high quality stuff. At least in my opinion.
The "Unlimited " is one of his preamps. If I could figure it out,I would post a link. It would make things so much easier.
First Watt,Monarchy Audio,Aric Audio,Prometheus Audio,April Music,Bluesound,Pro-Ject,Onkyo,Graham Chartwell,Nola,Hornshoppe,HSU Research.
For a preamp, which should have modest P/S demands, it probably doesn't matter what's in there... but the 5AR4 was a super-duper HV fullwave rectifier, developed for high-power, high-performance hifi (and fairly late in the vacuum tube era, too). Plus, good ones are 'spensive (and most of the current production 5AR4s are more or less junky). 5U4s are a dime a dozen (in fact, I can send you a couple if you want to play with -- and you're in the US Just PM me).
"We" sometimes substitute rectifiers with more voltage drop as a quick & dirty workaround to the typically higher AC mains voltage of today vs. the 1950s (it takes some of the strain off of vintage hifi components, which might otherwise push, e.g., output tubes too hard). Gee-tar amp buffs tend to like some sag in their amp
P/S, but they're into creative uses of distortion (and compression), which we generally like to avoid in hifi.
Still, lots of designers/builders out there with all kinds of ideas!
Pretty 'stiff' P/S design for what looks to be a pretty simple preamp -- I would guess the 5U4 loosens things up a bit and may well sound better.
EDIT: The photos on the site show a Sovtek 5AR4. Did you have a good one (vintage Mullard) in yours, or a current production 5AR4? If the latter, that may be why the 5U4 sounds better, too.
It is cool it has a built-in phono preamp for that low price.
For a preamp, which should have modest P/S demands, it probably doesn't matter what's in there... but the 5AR4 was a super-duper HV fullwave rectifier, developed for high-power, high-performance hifi (and fairly late in the vacuum tube era, too). Plus, good ones are 'spensive (and most of the current production 5AR4s are more or less junky). 5U4s are a dime a dozen (in fact, I can send you a couple if you want to play with -- and you're in the US Just PM me).
"We" sometimes substitute rectifiers with more voltage drop as a quick & dirty workaround to the typically higher AC mains voltage of today vs. the 1950s (it takes some of the strain off of vintage hifi components, which might otherwise push, e.g., output tubes too hard). Gee-tar amp buffs tend to like some sag in their amp
P/S, but they're into creative uses of distortion (and compression), which we generally like to avoid in hifi.
Still, lots of designers/builders out there with all kinds of ideas!
Pretty 'stiff' P/S design for what looks to be a pretty simple preamp -- I would guess the 5U4 loosens things up a bit and may well sound better.
EDIT: The photos on the site show a Sovtek 5AR4. Did you have a good one (vintage Mullard) in yours, or a current production 5AR4? If the latter, that may be why the 5U4 sounds better, too.
It is cool it has a built-in phono preamp for that low price.
I only used the Sovtek that Aric provided,so no experience with anything else. The 5AR4 was replaced with a 5U4GB. As I understand it,there is also a 5U4 (no GB)? He said DO NOT USE A 5U4. That he said would cause problems. Now you must know,I have about zero technical knowledge. I figured if the guy that built this suggested the swap,explained how I could make it happen,and also talked about how the sound might be effected. I figured I'd give it a whirl,and I'm glad I did.
The pre I have does not have a phono stage,as I already had one,and I run a mc cart. I found out about his gear on one of the other forums,and purchased one of his early pre's.(which I still own) I think his stuff sounds great,he's great to deal with,and I can actually afford some of his products!
First Watt,Monarchy Audio,Aric Audio,Prometheus Audio,April Music,Bluesound,Pro-Ject,Onkyo,Graham Chartwell,Nola,Hornshoppe,HSU Research.
The 5U4GB is rated for 275 mA plate current, the GA was only rated for 250 mA, and the "G" ("G" stands for "Glass" -- there was no unsuffixed version per se and AFAIK), which was a 5Z4 with an octal base, was only rated for 225 mA.
Apparently there was a metal 5U4 'variant', but its type designation was 5T4. http://www.fourwater.com/files/fullrect.txt
That's why the designer/builder says to use the GB if you're not going to use a 5AR4.
Hey guys! @rocray , the 5U4GB (not 5U4 or 5U4G) can safely be used in the Unlimited as the first filter cap it requires can be no larger than 40uf, whereas the 5U4 is much lower (the Unlimited uses 33 uf). Using it will lower the B+ voltage just a bit, so just make sure the regulators light consistently. If you find they are going out, then use one OC3 and one OD3 when the 5U4GB is in place. I agree with Tube Power on his choice for a favorite 5U4GB. For 5AR4s I’ve only ever used new production- either the Sovtek, Tung Sol or Mullard reissues all sound really good! Best, Aric
Here was part of our conversation on Agon. This is all way above my pay grade.
First Watt,Monarchy Audio,Aric Audio,Prometheus Audio,April Music,Bluesound,Pro-Ject,Onkyo,Graham Chartwell,Nola,Hornshoppe,HSU Research.
Started catching up on all of the new albums I have....one, right after the other.
Tom
In search of accurate reproduction of music. Real sound is my reference and while perfection may not be attainable? If I chase it, I might just catch excellence.
~ The best way to enjoy digital music reproduction is to never listen to good analogue reproduction ~
~ Not all things that can be measured can be heard and not all things heard can be measured ~
Mark Knopfler, 3 new albums from Chris Stapleton, Eva Cassidy and a couple of new ones from Vince Gill. Enjoyable day.
Never knew Chris Stapleton until I heard him on the speakers at a bar while I was eating pizza. I heard something about "Tenesssee Whisky and Strawberry wine", so I looked it up on the phone while I was there 'cuz I really dug the song....or what I could hear of it. Daggum place was noisy!
Went home and played all CS songs on Tidal and got to liking his style and voice. Liked him so much, I bought three of his albums right off the bat. Glad I did.
Tom
In search of accurate reproduction of music. Real sound is my reference and while perfection may not be attainable? If I chase it, I might just catch excellence.
~ The best way to enjoy digital music reproduction is to never listen to good analogue reproduction ~
~ Not all things that can be measured can be heard and not all things heard can be measured ~
CS's "the Traveler" album won a ton of awards when it came out. I heard him sing and play during those award shows, liked it, and still want to get that CD for sure. I'm sure the others are just as nice. Talented fellow, he is!
Song-writer extraordinaire!
Most people just listen to music and watch movies. I EXPERIENCE them.
Vince Gill is not shabby either. He is a great guitar player.
Vince Gill is an extremely talented musician. Getting his start way back with Pure Prairie League.
At one time he was invited to join a little group called Dire Straits, but declined so he could continue his Solo Career, although he did set in on their final Studio Recording of 'On Every Street'.
He is the second guitar on 'Fade to Black' and 'You and your Friend' amount others.
SDA SRS 2.3TL's/SDA SRS 3.1TL's/SDA CRS+4.1TL's and some other stuff
Vince Gill is not shabby either. He is a great guitar player.
Vince Gill is an extremely talented musician. Getting his start way back with Pure Prairie League.
I did not know that.
At one time he was invited to join a little group called Dire Straits, but declined so he could continue his Solo Career, although he did set in on their final Studio Recording of 'On Every Street'.
He is the second guitar on 'Fade to Black' and 'You and your Friend' amount others.
well, that's remarkable -- I mean, given that they were a bunch of Brits, bad dentition and all...
Mark Knopfler definitely has good taste -- he had Ruth Moody with him on at least one tour I loves me some Ruth Moody.
He (Gill) is a heck of a guitarist and an entertaining performer overall.
Vince Gill is not shabby either. He is a great guitar player.
well, that's remarkable -- I mean, given that they were a bunch of Brits, bad dentition and all...
Mark Knopfler definitely has good taste -- he had Ruth Moody with him on at least one tour I loves me some Ruth Moody.
He (Gill) is a heck of a guitarist and an entertaining performer overall.
I guess seeing and hearing Gills reasons as to why he didn't join the group might tell the story.
And yes, Ruth Moody has the voice of an Angel. 'Wherever I Go' is probably my favorite track on 'Tracker'
Post edited by Mike Reeter on
SDA SRS 2.3TL's/SDA SRS 3.1TL's/SDA CRS+4.1TL's and some other stuff
Comments
"No, that's silly talk. Dude, you can't possibly be this audio dumb so quit the act." - Doro
Belles 21A Pre modded with Mundorf Supreme caps
B&K M200 Sonata monoblocks refreshed and upgraded
Polk SDA 1C's modded
Wireworld Silver Eclipse IC's and speaker cables
Well... I thought it was a cool thing, and unusually so.
Belles 21A Pre modded with Mundorf Supreme caps
B&K M200 Sonata monoblocks refreshed and upgraded
Polk SDA 1C's modded
Wireworld Silver Eclipse IC's and speaker cables
https://300guitars.com/articles/rectifier-tube-voltage-drop-chart/
http://www.fourwater.com/files/fullrect.txt
Polk 7B main speakers, most mods comp. (1979, orig owner)
Martin Logan Dynamo sub w/6ft 14awg Power Cord
Crown D150 amp
Logitech Squeezebox Touch Streamer w/EDO applet
iFi nano iDSD DAC
iPurifier3
iDefender w/ iPower PS
Custom Steve Wilson 1m UPOCC Interconnect
iFi Mercury 0.5m OFHC continuous cast copper USB cable
Custom Ribbon Speaker Cables, 5ft long, 4N Copper, 14awg, ultra low inductance
Custom Vibration Isolation Speaker Stands and Sub Platform
The "Unlimited " is one of his preamps. If I could figure it out,I would post a link. It would make things so much easier.
Here’s a quick pic of my pre.
http://aricaudio.com/tube_gear.php
For a preamp, which should have modest P/S demands, it probably doesn't matter what's in there... but the 5AR4 was a super-duper HV fullwave rectifier, developed for high-power, high-performance hifi (and fairly late in the vacuum tube era, too). Plus, good ones are 'spensive (and most of the current production 5AR4s are more or less junky). 5U4s are a dime a dozen (in fact, I can send you a couple if you want to play with -- and you're in the US
"We" sometimes substitute rectifiers with more voltage drop as a quick & dirty workaround to the typically higher AC mains voltage of today vs. the 1950s (it takes some of the strain off of vintage hifi components, which might otherwise push, e.g., output tubes too hard). Gee-tar amp buffs tend to like some sag in their amp
P/S, but they're into creative uses of distortion (and compression), which we generally like to avoid in hifi.
Still, lots of designers/builders out there with all kinds of ideas!
Pretty 'stiff' P/S design for what looks to be a pretty simple preamp -- I would guess the 5U4 loosens things up a bit and may well sound better.
EDIT: The photos on the site show a Sovtek 5AR4. Did you have a good one (vintage Mullard) in yours, or a current production 5AR4? If the latter, that may be why the 5U4 sounds better, too.
It is cool it has a built-in phono preamp for that low price.
HT - Panasonic BDP/Tivo Bolt - Marantz SR5013 - Def tech C and In ceiling - Sony XBR 75"
Snitches get stitches I'll never give it up ...
What are we talking about ?
I only used the Sovtek that Aric provided,so no experience with anything else. The 5AR4 was replaced with a 5U4GB. As I understand it,there is also a 5U4 (no GB)? He said DO NOT USE A 5U4. That he said would cause problems. Now you must know,I have about zero technical knowledge. I figured if the guy that built this suggested the swap,explained how I could make it happen,and also talked about how the sound might be effected. I figured I'd give it a whirl,and I'm glad I did.
The pre I have does not have a phono stage,as I already had one,and I run a mc cart. I found out about his gear on one of the other forums,and purchased one of his early pre's.(which I still own) I think his stuff sounds great,he's great to deal with,and I can actually afford some of his products!
Apparently there was a metal 5U4 'variant', but its type designation was 5T4.
http://www.fourwater.com/files/fullrect.txt
That's why the designer/builder says to use the GB if you're not going to use a 5AR4.
Here was part of our conversation on Agon. This is all way above my pay grade.
Thanks.
Tom
~ The best way to enjoy digital music reproduction is to never listen to good analogue reproduction ~
~ When the law ends, tyranny begins ~
Village Idiot of Club Polk
Mark Knopfler, 3 new albums from Chris Stapleton, Eva Cassidy and a couple of new ones from Vince Gill. Enjoyable day.
Never knew Chris Stapleton until I heard him on the speakers at a bar while I was eating pizza. I heard something about "Tenesssee Whisky and Strawberry wine", so I looked it up on the phone while I was there 'cuz I really dug the song....or what I could hear of it. Daggum place was noisy!
Went home and played all CS songs on Tidal and got to liking his style and voice. Liked him so much, I bought three of his albums right off the bat. Glad I did.
Tom
~ The best way to enjoy digital music reproduction is to never listen to good analogue reproduction ~
~ When the law ends, tyranny begins ~
HT - Panasonic BDP/Tivo Bolt - Marantz SR5013 - Def tech C and In ceiling - Sony XBR 75"
Song-writer extraordinaire!
Harry / Marietta Georgia
Vince Gill is an extremely talented musician. Getting his start way back with Pure Prairie League.
At one time he was invited to join a little group called Dire Straits, but declined so he could continue his Solo Career, although he did set in on their final Studio Recording of 'On Every Street'.
He is the second guitar on 'Fade to Black' and 'You and your Friend' amount others.
Mark Knopfler definitely has good taste -- he had Ruth Moody with him on at least one tour
He (Gill) is a heck of a guitarist and an entertaining performer overall.
I guess seeing and hearing Gills reasons as to why he didn't join the group might tell the story.
And yes, Ruth Moody has the voice of an Angel. 'Wherever I Go' is probably my favorite track on 'Tracker'